About Dr. Goldenson
Dr. Goldenson has expertise in a wide range of forensic assessments and is frequently retained to conduct civil, criminal, and other medico-legal evaluations.
Her strong publication and teaching track-record makes her sought after by lawyers and other professionals to provide consultation and training. She has a particular interest and expertise in the evaluation of trauma-related conditions in both civil and criminal contexts.
Forensic Services
Forensic psychology applies psychological science to legal and adjudicative questions. In this context, psychological assessment and testing are used to inform expert opinions on matters such as psychological functioning, credibility-related factors, causation, and alleged psychological harm.
Dr. Goldenson provides independent forensic psychological opinions in civil, criminal, and other medico-legal proceedings. Her work is methodologically rigorous, legally relevant, and designed to withstand careful evidentiary scrutiny.
Common Referrals
- Independent Medical Examinations (IMEs)
Retained by both defence and plaintiff counsel to assess allegations of psychological injury or harm arising from the actions of individual or institutional actors. - Litigation consultation, including class proceedings
Consultation on psychological issues relevant to individual claims or class actions, including case formulation, evidentiary considerations, and interpretation of psychological evidence. - Expert report review and consultation
Independent review of expert psychological reports, with attention to diagnostic reasoning, methodology, and interpretation of assessment data. - Mental state at the time of the offence (trauma-related reactions)
Assessment of the impact of trauma-related symptoms on perception, appraisal of threat, and behavioural responding at the time of the alleged offence. - Pre-sentence and mitigation assessments
Evaluation of psychological factors relevant to sentencing, risk management, and rehabilitation. - Violence risk assessments
Assessment of risk for future violence in criminal, civil, and occupational contexts. - Fitness for work and work-related risk assessments
Evaluation of psychological functioning as it relates to occupational capacity, safety, and risk. - Disciplinary and regulatory proceedings
Independent psychological assessments conducted in the context of professional discipline, regulatory hearings, and fitness-to-practise matters.
Approach to Forensic Assessment and Opinion
Dr. Goldenson takes a trauma-informed approach to forensic assessment and conducts evaluations in a respectful and measured manner, with careful attention to the dignity of the individual being assessed.
Her forensic opinions are grounded in established psychological science and guided by the ethical standards of forensic practice. Each opinion reflects careful consideration of interview findings, psychological testing, collateral information, and relevant records, with explicit attention to the limits of the available evidence. She approaches forensic questions with independence and neutrality, considers alternative explanations, and frames conclusions clearly and proportionately in response to the legal questions at issue.